Find Tranquillity on Holiday in Langstrothdale
The Yorkshire Dales is an area feted for its wonderful scenery and Langstrothdale is no exception. This steep sided, deep valley is a tranquil retreat in North Yorkshire with trademark features such as dry limestone walls and traditional farm buildings. Click on the photograph on the right to view a selection of good quality self-catering accommodation in the Yorkshire Dales.
The upper part of the River Wharfe runs through it for around 15 miles and the geological story is just as fascinating under the ground as it is above it. This limestone countryside is ideal country for cave and pothole enthusiasts, with complex caving systems throughout the valley. For the everyday visitor, however, staying above ground in this slightly populated area brings the reward of a variety of established walking routes and fabulous views. Langstrothdale Chase, which spans the valley, is pastureland and moorland, which used to be an ancient hunting forest.
Langstrothdale has a few settlements within its confines, with interesting opportunities for a well earned break. At the foot of the valley, Hubberholme is a small, old village, mostly known for its inn and its church. The inn is a Grade II listed building, dating from the 17th century, which still has stone flag flooring and mullioned windows, with a welcoming open fire in chilly weather. Carrying on an old tradition, a lit candle can be seen in the window when the bar is open for customers. St. Michael and All Angels is the parish church and this building’s history goes back to the 1100s. Remains of ancient burial grounds are in evidence. A famous Yorkshire native has his resting place in the churchyard of St. Michael’s. The ashes of Bradford born playwright, J.B. Priestley (An Inspector Calls) were scattered here in 1984.
On the north bank of the River Wharfe is the hamlet of Yockenthwaite. Many walkers follow the Yockenthwaite to Cray Wildlife Walk, which is a particular favourite of birdwatchers. Several species of water birds and birds inhabiting meadows can be observed. Dippers and kingfishers are sometimes seen by the riverbanks. Another local attraction to this hamlet is the nearby prehistoric stone circle, thought to be part of a burial mound. Yockenthwaite Stone Circle is conveniently close to the Dales Way walking route.
Actually forming part of the Dales Way Walk (a long distance walk of 82 miles from Ilkley to Windermere) Oughtershaw is another hamlet in the dale, situated on Oughtershaw Beck. An outdoor centre here offers organised walks and climbs plus canoeing and mountain biking. Cray is another small hamlet, known locally for its lovely waterfalls.
As for the many opportunities for potholing, Langstroth Cave and Pothole is very challenging, as is Strans Gill Pot. Pasture Gill Pot is categorised as ‘severe’ in terms of difficulty.
Langstrothdale has enough outdoors activities for the energetic family, whether they want to go walking, biking, climbing or spend time on the water. Children love to search out the local animal habitats and visitors enjoy the locally reared meat and dairy produce. Cosy fireside suppers in inns with stories to tell are all part of the dales experience and a warm welcome is guaranteed.
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